A plot of the number of neutrons `(n)` against the number of protons `(p)` of stable nuclei exhibits upward deviation from linearity for atomic number, `Zgt 20.` For an unstable nucleus having `n//p` ratio less than 1, the possible mode `(s)` of decay is `(are)`

Options

A. `beta^(-)`-decay (`beta` emission)
B. orbital of K-electron capture
C. neutron emission
D. `beta^(+)`-decay (positron emission)

Answer

b,d

Explanation

When N/P ratio is lower than required for stabiltiy such nuclei can increase N/P ratio by adopting any one of the following mode of decay:
(i) Positron `(beta^(+))` emission (ii) K-electron capture
(iii) Emission of `alpha`-particles
`:.` (b) and (d) options are correct.